Hygiene – Yes, We Have to Talk About This…
12/22/2010By
All professions have their challenges. In sales, it might be the elusive close. In retail, it might be getting your register to balance. In customer service, it’s likely the rude customer who is yelling and swearing.
The profession of human resources has more than one challenge, but there is one that can elicit a heavy sigh from even the most seasoned of professionals. It is the department manager plopping down on our office guest chair with a statement similar to this, “I have an employee who smells so bad people are arguing about who has to sit in the cube next to him/her…”
While it might be quicker and easier to deal with the issue ourselves rather than talking the manager through it, we need to grow and develop our managers even when it’s difficult and uncomfortable.
In coaching the manager, make them aware that there are issues to consider before taking action, including the possibility that the situation is caused by an ADA protected disability. There could be a physical limitation that makes total body cleaning a challenge. There might be cultural or religious reasons that are contributing to the issue. All of these things need to be discussed with the manager and an approach planned out.
By partnering with the manager to explore the possibilities respectfully and put a plan in place, some much needed comfort is brought to an uncomfortable situation. While difficult to have, it is good to remember how much more difficult it is going to be for the employee to hear. In the infamous words of Adam Sandler in Big Daddy; “He’s the smelly kid in class! I let him become the smelly kid in class!?!?” There is a question in here for us too and ultimately, some good for the employee with the knowledge of how they are impacting those around them.
Diplomacy and Tact II: Handling Delicate Situations runs January 20, 2011 from 1 to 4 p.m. This session addresses some conversation starters for difficult message delivery. Although this class doesn’t address hygiene specifically, it can be a confidence builder to help us manage difficult conversations. To register, please click the link above.